Jigsaw Puzzle Team Racing ages 16+ and up!!
Tuesday, February 17, 2026   6:30 -8:30 PM
Community Room, Needham Free Public Library

On your marks ... get set .... PUZZLE!!

Join Program Specialist Gay Ellen Dennett for a Jigsaw Puzzle Team Race for Adults ages 16 and up!

A jigsaw puzzle race or competition typically consists of individuals and/or teams that compete against one another putting a puzzle together. Every team gets presented with the same puzzle (500 Pieces) and must complete it in the fastest time. Whoever completes their puzzle first wins! Or if not done within the allotted time, the team that gets the most pieces together in 90 minutes wins!

Here is a breakdown of the basics and the rules:

- Each team receives the same puzzle
- Each Team will be made up of 4 - 6 members
- No one gets to see the puzzle until the timer begins – the puzzle boxes are placed face down before the competition starts (up to digression of judges to decide if you are a worthy enough crowd to see the image first or complete it blindly 
- Teams will each try to put their puzzle together the fastest
- Rounds are a specified amount of time (we may take a 10 minute stretch / restroom / snack break halfway through) ; if there is no declared winner by the end of the 90 minute limit, the winner is chosen by their remaining number of loose pieces
- In the event of a tie, individuals or teams can be given an additional five minutes to work on the puzzle
- There are no devices or outside assistance permitted while working on a puzzle
- Two moderators help with the event – one to handle the timer and completion times, and another to observe and ensure that competitors are abiding by the rules
- Individuals and teams are not allowed to distract or approach team tables when the competition is in progress
- This race is meant to be fun and family friendly, so we need to keep things PG while you're puzzling

First, Second, and Third Place Teams may even get some prizes, so come and get your puzzle on!!

**Registration will be taken by email or in Person at the Adult Reference Desk. Please contact / come in to the Reference Desk and ask for Gay Ellen or send an email with EACH of the participants names and ages (approximate) to neemail1@minlib.net. Teams of 4 - 6 members will be divided accordingly, and individual and small group registrants will be placed with others to create a full team. We can accommodate up to 5 teams.*